Experimental video analysis of eye blink reflex in a primate model.

BACKGROUND

The establishment of reliable methods for functional assessment in experimental models of peripheral nerve regeneration is crucial.

METHODS

We present a straightforward method for video analysis of the eye blink reflex in a model of facial nerve damage in a nonhuman primate (Callithrix sp.).

RESULTS

Our 6-level dynamic analysis demonstrated good reproducibility between independent observers, as measured by Cohen's kappa index. Our static analysis, which was based on 4 semiautomated metric parameters, showed low correlation during the early stage of facial movement recovery (the first and second weeks), but the correlation was excellent during the later stage of recovery (the third and fourth weeks).

CONCLUSION

Altogether, our results establish a viable and readily accessible method with good reproducibility and correlation for the analysis of functional facial nerve recovery in an experimental model and based on video images of the eye blink reflex.